BICSI (Building Industry Consulting Service International) is a professional association supporting the advancement of the information and communications technology (ICT) profession and currently serves more than 26,000 members and credential holders. BICSI is the preeminent resource for the Connected World. Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, USA, BICSI membership spans nearly 100 countries.
Information and communications technology (ICT) is a critical part of any organization. A well-organized ICT infrastructure boosts productivity and drives innovation. For this reason, ICT professionals, such as BICSI RCDDs (Registered Communications Distribution Designers), are essential for advancing business and innovation. The ICT field is constantly evolving due to new technological advancements; as a result, professionals must continually update their skill sets through various certification courses.
To support this advancement of the ICT profession, BICSI (Building Industry Consulting Service International), a professional association, offers certifications alongside several resources and guidelines. These resources help ICT professionals as they provide both basic and in-depth knowledge on nearly any ICT-related subject.
(Or “As technology advances, the ICT field must evolve alongside it; as a result, ICT professionals must constantly update their skill sets through various certification courses. To support this advancement, the industry association BICSI offers certifications alongside several resources and guidelines crafted for ICT professionals.”)
What is BICSI?
BICSI is a professional association that supports the advancement of the ICT profession. Many members of leading ICT organizations are members of the BICSI standards program.
The purpose of BICSI as defined in their bylaws:
- “Providing members and others with opportunities for dialogue, education, advancement, and improvement of all aspects of the information and communications technology (ICT) industry through meetings, seminars, communications, publications, and other programs and activities;
- Promoting high-quality code, best practice and standardization of ICT safety, performance, design, and methods through the development of its members in the areas of professional career enhancement, recognition, and effectiveness in the fields of information and communications technology;
- Promoting professional approaches to the operation, development, and improvement of ICT that support provision of high-quality ICT products and services”
To support the advancement of ICT, BICSI has defined a set of standards and best practices used to design, install, and integrate information and communications technology. Their best practices are currently in use across all ICT systems and technologies, such as:
- Voice/Data/Audio/Video Technologies
- Electronic Safety and Security
- Project Management (Telecommunications)
- Design, Integration, and Installation of Telecommunications Distributions
- Fiber and Copper-Based Distribution Systems and Infrastructure
- Commercial Transportation of Information and Data
- Wireless Networks
BICSI’s standards each refer to different end-use. For example, BICSI – 004 – 2012 refers to Healthcare Institutions and Facilities, while BICSI – 002 refers to Data Center Design.
BICSI Resources
Apart from their standards, BICSI offers its members a wealth of resources that they can use to raise their skill level and technical knowledge. Some of them include:
- Education and Training
- Conferences and Events
- Credentials and Certification Programs
- Standards and Best Practices
- Reference Manuals
- Community and Membership
BICSI Should NOT Be Confused With Vendor Certifications
BICSI offers both credentials and certification programs. A certification program is a course that teaches ICT professionals the necessary skills to develop professionally. These programs update professionals on data delivery trends and products. Certifications are also an excellent way to gain credibility in the field.
There are several certification programs available in the ICT industry. They can be classified into two broad categories: vendor-specific and vendor-neutral certification programs. It is important to distinguish between the two categories because the knowledge and skills that are covered are different.
Vendor-specific certifications cover specific developer platforms, tools, or technologies. They focus on building or updating skills in specific tools, such as AWS, Cisco, and Microsoft.
Vendor-neutral certifications allow professionals to master different technologies. They set professionals on the path to become an expert in a particular area of development, such as project management or security. With a vendor-neutral certification, professionals enjoy adaptability in their career; as the certification is not tied to a particular product or system, it can be used in a greater variety of positions.
BICSI is a vendor-neutral certification.
What is a BICSI RCDD Certification?
The BICSI RCDD (Registered Communications Distribution Designer) certification is one of the most prestigious credentials in the industry. A Registered Communications Distribution Designer can design an intricate cabling system for a new build or accommodate a design to an existing structure. An RCDD follows a project from inception to completion.
RCDDs determine the telecommunication needs of a company, examine its structure(s), and develop plans for outlining the cables. Additionally, RCDDs ensure cables are installed to industry standards and that cables are maintained properly and evaluated for longevity.
To become a BICSI RCDD, candidates first have to meet some qualifications.
Qualifications to Become a BICSI RCDD
To apply for the RCDD certification exam, one of the following requirements must be met:
- Two years of verifiable full-time work experience in ICT design AND a current BICSI certification holder as a BICSI technician, registered telecommunications project manager, data center design consultant, or outside plant designer.
- Two years of verifiable full-time equivalent work experience in ICT design AND completion of two years of higher education coursework in ICT.
- Five years of verifiable ICT experience.
Candidates are not required to take any formal training or learning courses before testing, but BICSI provides many materials to prepare for the exam. If a candidate qualifies, they can then apply for the BICSI exam. This instructional video explains the process.
Once certified, professionals must undertake 45 hours of education every three years and attend at least one BICSI conference.
Role of a Certified BICSI RCDD Professional in the Workplace
IT personnel with a BICSI RCDD Certification are considered highly knowledgeable in the distribution of the cabling required for technology upgrades.
Having this expertise in-house is a huge benefit for businesses that experience rapid changes due to the complexity of technology and cabling infrastructure. Apart from designing and overseeing the implementation of cable infrastructure, RCDDs also ensure that the project meets industry standards and that it will serve the building’s needs for the foreseeable future.
Reasons Why RCDDs are Highly Sought-After
RCDDs are in high demand for cabling projects around the world. Organizations need RCDDs for the following reasons:
- Cabling distribution systems are becoming increasingly complex. Professionals with the knowledge, skills, and experience that accompany the RCDD certification can successfully handle this complexity.
- The RCDD certification is recognized worldwide, so virtually all organizations with cabling projects recognize the value inherent in the certification.
- RCDDs can design the latest flexible and scalable systems which give businesses an edge over the competition.
- RCDDs are well-versed in design and in project management, so businesses acquire two vital skills in one individual. RCDDs can handle the entire project from start to finish without assistance from a project manager.
- As required by BICSI, RCDDs are constantly updated on new trends, emerging technologies, and industry standards.
RCDD Services
A certified RCDD can offer the following services:
- Extensive knowledge and experience in distribution design.
- Consistently updated skills and knowledge.
- Compliance with industry standards and codes.
- A vendor-neutral work style
- Access to a steady flow of information due to BICSI membership.
Lastly, an RCDD can position an organization to benefit from future emerging technologies and trends.
Become BICSI RCDD Certified Today
BICSI RCDD-certified individuals play a critical role in organizations and are in high demand worldwide.
There are various qualifications that professionals need to begin the RCDD certification process. If you meet the certification qualifications, you can apply for the certification exam.
